Assessment of the epidemic preparedness and response capacity in Sierra Leone
Introduction: In recent times, natural disasters and disease outbreaks have struck various countries increasing morbidity and mortality rates. Sierra Leone, one of the three West African countries that was hit greatly by the 2014 Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak was not adequately prepared for...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
African Field Epidemiology Network
2022-12-01
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| Series: | Journal of Interventional Epidemiology and Public Health |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.afenet-journal.net/content/series/5/2/8/full/ |
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| Summary: | Introduction: In recent times, natural disasters and disease outbreaks have struck
various countries increasing morbidity and mortality rates. Sierra Leone, one of the
three West African countries that was hit greatly by the 2014 Ebola Virus Disease
(EVD) outbreak was not adequately prepared for the outbreak. As parts of efforts to
improve preparedness and response to public health in West Africa, The Economic
Community of West African States (ECOWAS) adopted approaches such as
strengthening of their disease surveillance systems through capacity development and
implementing the International Health Regulations, 2005. Objective: We assessed the
epidemic preparedness and response capacity of Sierra Leone three years after the EVD
outbreak. Methods: We conducted interviews with various representatives of the
major stakeholders involved in the emergency preparedness and response and carried
out record reviews in Sierra Leone from April to July 2018. Results: Sierra Leone has
a number of effective plan and policies developed and implemented to improve
epidemic preparedness and response. The directorate of Health Security and
emergencies under the Public health directorate of the ministry of health provides
overall coordination of public health emergency preparedness and response in the
country. Conclusion: Sierra Leone has made some significant strides on public healthrelated efforts since the 2014 outbreak. However, the absence of an EOC serves as a
limiting step to achieving the required preparedness the country needs. Again, over
reliance on international partners could affect to the sustainability of their gains made
if not addressed effectively. |
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| ISSN: | 2664-2824 |